@Ashlee Fake I'm not sure there is a "best" way. My team has had great success in everything from MLS, wholesalers and direct purchases. You can be successful with each source.

I have bought recently plenty of deals in the MLS that hit the 1% rule some investors target.

The wholesaler route can get you some below market deals but, man you have to watch those wholesalers. A very small percent really know their numbers and are honest. 

I'm working in the North Texas area so NJ may be different. 

I don't think there's a "best" way either! I get a lot of my properties from MLS because I don't have time to market myself & didn't see anything from wholesalers. It all comes down to what properties & numbers work for you & what you are looking for. For example, I like to buy in Class A neighborhoods and I've found that wholesalers typically don't have much in those neighborhoods.

For those looking to house hack in new jersey majority of deals still come from MLS with a portion of them coming off market, 80/20. I primarily focus on house hacking with a huge focus on multi family deals.